Best Online Colleges in West Virginia

Colleges with online classes offer a flexible option to earn your degree while also balancing many of life's other responsibilities. Check out the most popular online programs of 2023 below.

Best Accredited Colleges

#1 West Virginia University

Morgantown, WV

$11486

57%

West Virginia University is a public, land- and space-grant research university with a main campus in Morgantown and two additional campuses in Beckley and Keyser. Together, these locations enroll nearly 30,000 students. WVU also stands out as one of the best online colleges in West Virginia. WVU Online offers over 600 courses, as well as 31 degrees, 23 minors, and 13 certificates. Bachelor's degrees are available in areas like business, child development and family studies, and nursing. Students may also select a multidisciplinary studies option or a bachelor of arts completion option, allowing participants to combine transfer credits, online classes, and practical experience to fulfill 120 credits. Master's degrees are available in more than a dozen disciplines, including education, social work, software engineering, and music industry. Admission requirements vary by student status and program selection. All applicants must supply applicable transcripts and a completed application. Out-of-state online students pay the same tuition as residents, with some additional fees.

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#2 Alderson Broaddus University

Philippi, WV

$17794

47%

The final school on our list of the best online colleges in West Virginia is Alderson Broaddus University -- a private institution affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA and the West Virginia Baptist Convention. More than 2,000 students attend classes at the school's Phillippi campus each year. AB is dedicated to leadership in health-related and professional education. The university expands this dedication to distance learners, offering an 18-month RN-to-BSN degree and a 1-2-year teacher leader master of education. The RN-to-BSN pathway consists entirely of asynchronous courses, with no campus visits or hospital clinicals required. Cohorts in the education program enjoy the benefits of synchronous and asynchronous course delivery. RN-to-BSN admission requires an unencumbered RN license, an associate degree or nursing diploma (with a minimum 2.5 GPA), transcripts, and a certified background check/drug screening. Prospective education students must submit transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and proof of state teaching licensure. State residency does not impact tuition costs.

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#3 West Liberty University

West Liberty, WV

$12293

48%

Founded in 1837 -- more than two decades before West Virginia was admitted into the United States -- West Liberty University is the state's oldest institution of higher education. Today, this public university serves more than 2,500 students each year, both on campus and online. Each semester, WLU offers a wide selection of individual courses online, which are ideal for supplementing an on-campus schedule. Students can also pursue seven programs entirely from a distance. Undergraduate options include a general business bachelor's degree and an RN-to-BSN pathway. Available master's degree disciplines include business administration, criminology, dental hygiene, and biology/zoo science master's -- the only program of its kind in the nation. Zoology students have the option to gain hands-on experience at a collaborating institution. Admission requirements -- including minimum GPAs and prerequisites -- vary by student status and program. Out-of-state students pay higher tuition rates.

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#4 University of Charleston

Charleston, WV

$12786

49%

The University of Charleston serves more than 2,500 students each year at three campus locations. The school also hosts one of the best online colleges in West Virginia. Initially affiliated with the Methodist Church, UC became an independent private university in 1940. UC offers a variety of asynchronous online and hybrid programs. Leadership studies are a major focus of UC's online catalog, with options like a frontline leadership associate degree, an organizational leadership bachelor's degree, a strategic leadership master's degree, and an executive leadership doctorate. Students can also pursue programs in accounting, business administration, cybersecurity, nursing, and psychology. Available support services include academic and career advising, as well as facilitated study groups with other online learners. Undergraduate applicants should possess a minimum 2.6 high school GPA, while aspiring graduate students should possess a baccalaureate GPA of at least 3.0. State residency does not impact online tuition costs, and military students receive a discounted rate for select programs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best online colleges in West Virginia?

Some of the best online colleges in West Virginia include West Virginia University, Marshall University, and Wheeling University. These institutions offer a wide range of online programs and have a strong reputation for academic excellence.

2. How do I choose the right online college in West Virginia?

When choosing an online college in West Virginia, consider factors such as accreditation, program offerings, faculty qualifications, student support services, and tuition costs. It's important to research and compare multiple institutions to find the one that best fits your educational goals and needs.

3. Are online degrees from West Virginia colleges respected by employers?

Yes, online degrees from reputable West Virginia colleges are generally respected by employers. It's important to choose an accredited institution and ensure that the online program you pursue aligns with your career goals. Employers value the skills and knowledge gained through online education, as long as the degree is from a recognized and accredited institution.

4. Can I transfer credits earned at another college to an online college in West Virginia?

Many online colleges in West Virginia accept transfer credits from other accredited institutions. However, the transferability of credits depends on factors such as the similarity of the courses, the accreditation status of the previous institution, and the specific policies of the online college. It's best to contact the admissions office of the online college you are interested in to inquire about their transfer credit policies.

5. How long does it take to complete an online degree in West Virginia?

The duration of an online degree program in West Virginia varies depending on the level of the degree and the program's structure. Generally, an associate degree takes around two years to complete, a bachelor's degree takes around four years, and a master's degree takes around two years. However, some programs may offer accelerated options or allow students to study at their own pace.

6. What financial aid options are available for online college students in West Virginia?

Online college students in West Virginia have access to various financial aid options, including federal grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans. It's recommended to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal and state financial aid programs. Additionally, some online colleges may offer their own scholarships or tuition assistance programs.

7. Can I receive personalized support as an online student in West Virginia?

Yes, online colleges in West Virginia typically provide personalized support services for their online students. These may include online tutoring, academic advising, career counseling, technical support, and access to virtual libraries and resources. Online students can also interact with professors and classmates through discussion boards, video conferences, and email.

8. Are online classes in West Virginia self-paced or scheduled?

Online classes in West Virginia can vary in terms of structure. Some programs offer self-paced courses, allowing students to complete assignments and coursework at their own convenience within specified deadlines. Other programs may have scheduled classes or synchronous sessions where students are required to attend virtual lectures or discussions at specific times. It's important to review the program's format and requirements before enrolling.

9. Can I access online classes and coursework from anywhere?

Yes, one of the advantages of online education is the flexibility to access classes and coursework from anywhere with an internet connection. As long as you have a reliable internet connection and a compatible device, you can participate in online classes, submit assignments, and interact with instructors and fellow students from any location.

10. How do I apply to an online college in West Virginia?

The application process for online colleges in West Virginia is typically similar to that of traditional colleges. You will need to complete an online application, submit official transcripts from previous schools, provide any required test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), and possibly write an essay or personal statement. Some programs may have additional requirements, so it's important to review the specific application instructions provided by the online college you are interested in.